Spring is here. Get the kids off the couch and into the swing of the season with a day or weekend visit to Arvada. The emphasis in our historic community is on fun, activity, relaxation and learning …

Spring is here. Get the kids off the couch and into the swing of the season with a day or weekend visit to Arvada. The emphasis in our historic community is on fun, activity, relaxation and learning for the entire family. So, bring the bikes, your appetite and your curiosity. We’re ready for you!

Go now! 12th Annual Arvada Kite Festival

Bright colors will glide through the sky above Arvada for the 12th Annual Arvada Kite Festival. This free event thrills all age groups with the artistry of kite flying and friendly competition along with musical entertainment, great food, activities and non-stop fun. Trophies awarded for highest kite, smallest kite, largest kite, and most visually appealing kite. New this year: Bol Races.

When: Sunday, April 6, 2014 from 10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.

Where: Stenger Soccer Complex, 58th Ave. and Quail St., Arvada

Info: (720) 898-7405

Go anytime! Arvada Reservoir

Escape and relax in the natural beauty of the Arvada Reservoir. There’s no swimming, and boats are limited to electric trolling motors only. But the reservoir is stocked with rainbow trout, brown trout, large mouth bass, walleye and tiger Muskie and the site contains an abundance of wildlife. Purchase a daily pass at the entrance: $5 per vehicle, $3 per individual and $5 per boat. Bring your valid Colorado fishing license.

When: daily, 6:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Where: 18001 West 66th Ave., between Highway 93 and Indiana St.

Info: (720) 898-7410

Go now! Armchair Tour of Costa Rica

Take the kids and travel the world. Join adventure traveler and videographer Carolyn Adam on an exploration of Costa Rica. Marvel at the diversity of plant life, join Howler monkeys in the treetops and experience the results of nature’s unstable geology. $3 per person

Are you sitting on a gold mine? Bring your favorite antique to the Arvada Historical Society’s Antique Appraisal and find out. The society’s panel of experts will provide an evaluation of your treasure’s Denver market value. All proceeds benefit the Historical Society. Fee: $5 donation per item, maximum of two items.

When: Saturday, April 26, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Where: Arvada Flour Mill, 5580 Wadsworth Boulevard, Arvada

Info: (303) 431-1261

Go anytime! Meet Jean Gordon, Arvada’s Concierge

In the department of shameless self-promotion, I’d like to extend a personal invitation to you and your family to start your visit to our town by dropping by the Arvada Visitors Center in historic Olde Town Arvada. Consider us your one-stop shop for learning about all activities, events and promotions in Arvada. Let us customize a vacation for you. We’re bursting with great ideas.